Crane mats are essential in construction, allowing heavy machinery to work safely on difficult terrain. Standard mats are versatile, transition mats level uneven ground, swamp mats work on wetlands, and rig mats suit rig applications.
All crane mats need to be usable, durable and shippable, but sizing varies by material. They must also be stiff enough to distribute outrigger loads and reduce ground pressure.
Laminated Wood
Crane mats are an important tool for companies that work in the construction industry. They keep trucks and other heavy equipment from getting stuck in mud or soft ground, making it easier to move from point A to point B. They also help prevent soil erosion, which can occur when trucks and other machinery repeatedly drive over the same spot over long periods of time. Finally, crane mats protect wildlife and other living things from being trampled or disturbed by the trucks and machinery.
Typically made of wood, laminated mats are constructed from strips of timber that are joined together to create a thicker, more stable piece. The strips of timber are usually arranged in parallel rows with the joints facing one another, and they are then bound to each other using either glue or nails. Depending on the type of wood used, laminations can be very strong and durable. They can also be easy to clean, though it is best to avoid using abrasive cleaners on laminated wood as this could damage the surface.
Crane Mat Companies offers several different types of crane mats that are designed to meet a variety of needs, from temporary works designs to permanent installations. They can be layered under large construction projects, stacked under oil rig cranes, or even used to provide ground stabilization for residential properties. When selecting crane mats for your job site, cranemats.co makes it easy to compare different materials and styles to find the perfect match for your needs.
Laminated mats are often the most popular choice for customers because they offer a warm, natural aesthetic while still being strong and durable enough to withstand the weight of large machinery. They are also easy to maintain, with regular sweeping and cleaning keeping them free from dirt and debris. However, it is important to note that laminated mats are not impervious to weather, so they may need to be covered when it rains.
When it comes to sizing, the size of a crane mat is determined by a number of factors, including the size and weight of the machinery, the type of ground, and the allowable ground bearing pressure. For this reason, it is common for temporary crane mats to be sized according to the specific requirements of a project.
Steel
Crane mats are temporary platforms used to stabilize heavy equipment for construction and shipping, loading of goods, and oil or gas exploration. They are also sometimes used as a bridge over sensitive areas like swamps, wetlands, or pipelines (often called access or bridge mats). Crane mats protect the environment by creating a stable base, they prevent soil erosion and ground compacting, and they can keep roads and sidewalks safe from damage by heavy machinery.
Choosing the right crane mats for your project requires careful consideration of a number of factors. The type of ground on which you plan to work, the size and weight of your equipment, and the allowable ground bearing pressure are just a few examples. You also need to take into account the outrigger load, as this can vary widely from one machine to another.
Timber is the most common material for crane mats, although there are also composite materials and high-density plastics available. Engineered steel is another popular option for large cranes, as it provides the highest distribution of load and resists bending.
The sizing of crane mats depends on the type of ground on which they will be placed and the outrigger load of the equipment to be used on the site. You can choose from a range of sizes, from small to large, depending on the specific needs of your project.
Having the right crane mats for your project can make all the difference when it comes to employee safety and the efficiency of your equipment. The right crane mats help you to get the job done on time and on budget. They can also minimize the likelihood of your equipment getting stuck, which can halt production and result in costly delays. If you’re ready to learn more about crane mats and how they can improve your project, contact Ritter Forest Products today. Our team of experts can answer any questions that you may have about the different types of crane mats and their uses. We look forward to working with you!
Plastic
When you need to keep heavy machinery moving in the right direction, crane mats are essential equipment. They help to decrease erosion, contamination and ground churn while protecting the equipment and anything underneath it. They also protect roads, sidewalks and other infrastructure from damage by trucks, tractors and other equipment.
Often used for passage over unstable or sensitive areas such as swamps or wetlands, or over pipelines, crane mats create a stable base and minimize environmental damage. They are also widely used in shipping and exporting as a way to stabilize and level the cargo being moved.
Crane mats are built from wood or composite materials, and each type is designed for different purposes and environments. Depending on the ground conditions, the size and weight of the equipment and the allowable ground bearing pressures, different mat sizes and shapes are used.
Timber crane mats are usually created from high-quality, treated hardwoods. This is because they can withstand heavy loads and still offer flexibility and strength, allowing the equipment to move easily. They can be shaped to fit the ground and are typically made from 4 or 8 feet wide timbers that range up to 40 feet long.
While timber mats are very durable and have a long lifespan, they can also be damaged by repeated use over uneven surfaces. This is why it’s important to choose the correct size for the job and to check that they are well maintained throughout the construction process.
Many companies are also using plastic as a type of crane mat. They are designed to be more resistant to damage than wooden ones and can be recycled again and again, so they’re a great option for environmentally conscious projects. The main ingredients for this type of crane mat include post-consumer High Density Polyethylene (detergent bottles, milk jugs and shampoo bottles) and industrial glass filled PP (automotive waste). AXION Structural Innovations is one company that offers a full line of these plastic mats.
Choosing the right crane mat can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your schedule and budget on track. When you get the right mats, it’s less likely that your trucks or other equipment will become stuck, which can cause costly delays.
Timber
The type of crane mats you need will depend on several factors, including the size and weight of your machinery. Heavier equipment will require mats with a higher surface area and greater strength to distribute the load. The type of project also plays a role. If you’re moving heavy industrial equipment or pipelines, stronger mats such as dragline and outrigger pads may be needed.
Standard crane mats are typically made of hardwood timbers like oak or fir, and provide a sturdy platform for construction machinery to move across. These types of mats are the workhorses of the industry, and can be found on projects ranging from building construction to pipeline installation. They’re also a great choice for creating temporary roads and bridges, giving vehicles and equipment access to wetlands, flooded areas, and other inaccessible terrain.
These mats can be interlocked or solid, and can range in thickness from a few inches to 40 feet. They can be custom sized to fit your machinery, and they’re also available in different woods depending on your needs. Some of the most popular options include Ekki, Okan, and Dabema timbers, which have been sourced from sustainable forests and are characterized by high abrasion resistance and monnine hardness.
Using crane mats on wet or muddy areas helps keep the ground stable and prevents mud bogging that can cause safety issues and damage to the environment. It’s important to note, however, that gaps between mats can lead to uneven loads and instability. Therefore, it’s important to plan ahead and map out your mats before you begin work to ensure the correct dimensions are in place.
As a result of the growing demand for these products, alternative materials are starting to enter the market as well. Composite mats, for example, are a good alternative to traditional timber crane mats and offer improved longevity. They’re also lighter, making them easier to transport and set up. In addition, these mats have been proven to handle large load capacities, and they don’t rot or deteriorate as quickly as timber.
